Legal Definitions - public official

A public official is a person who holds or is invested with a public office. This means they have been elected or appointed to carry out some portion of a government's sovereign powers. They are authorized to act on behalf of the government or organization they represent.

• A mayor is a public official who is elected to lead a city or town.
• A police officer is a public official who is authorized to enforce the law and maintain public safety.
• A judge is a public official who is appointed to preside over legal proceedings and make decisions based on the law.

These examples illustrate how public officials are individuals who have been given a specific role and responsibility within the government or organization they serve. They are expected to act in the best interest of the public and uphold the laws and regulations that govern their position.